Piaget’s latest creation, the Altiplano Skeleton High Jewelry watch, is where precision meets artistry. Limited to just eight pieces, this timepiece reimagines Piaget’s iconic skeleton movement with a layer of Grand Feu cloisonné enamel, crafted in collaboration with acclaimed enamel artist Anita Porchet. It’s a masterclass in what happens when watchmaking, jewelry, and artistic tradition collide.
This isn’t Piaget’s first foray into blending meticulous mechanics with jewelry-grade aesthetics. Founded in 1874 in La Côte-aux-Fées, the Swiss maison started with ultra-thin watch movements, like the legendary 9P. By the 1960s, the brand had shifted into vibrant ornamental dials, turning timepieces into canvases of expression. Over time, their skeleton movements—already revered for their technical complexity—became playgrounds for gem-setters, adorning intricate lines with diamonds and precious stones.
With the Altiplano Skeleton, Piaget takes that legacy further. At the heart of this 40mm masterpiece is the brand’s signature ultra-thin self-winding movement, the 1201D1. Every curve and edge is meticulously gem-set with diamonds and blue sapphires, but it’s the enamel work that truly sets this watch apart. Porchet’s expertise in Grand Feu cloisonné enamel transforms the dial and, for the first time, the case back. Swirls of blue, green, and purple enamel seamlessly blend with the gradient of baguette-cut stones, creating a fluid interplay of color and light.
At just 7mm thick, the Altiplano Skeleton retains the hallmark thinness Piaget is known for, despite the layers of craftsmanship packed within. It’s not just a watch—it’s an exploration of three distinct art forms: skeleton watchmaking, gem-setting, and cloisonné enameling.
True to Piaget’s motto, “Always do better than necessary,” this piece isn’t about following trends but about redefining what’s possible in high watchmaking. It’s an object of desire for collectors, an ode to heritage for enthusiasts, and a striking reminder of Piaget’s place at the intersection of innovation and craftsmanship.
